Headlining the feature enhancements are new and larger display screens, upgraded Euro 6 engines – some with more power – and the introduction of the new Rapid Monte Carlo trim.

Those new displays now also come with the option of Skoda’s SmartLink system with Apple Carplay and Android Auto, making the Czech brand one of the first in Australia to offer the new mobile phone connectivity platforms.

These upgrades come with new pricing across the range, however, and with the exception of the now more affordable Rapid range, most models are now more expensive.

As with Volkswagen’s newly updated range, Skoda will be looking to these upgrades to build on an already healthy increase in sales, which currently sit at 2352 year-to-date – up from 1807 for the same period in 2014.

2016 Skoda Rapid Spaceback

Driving the Rapid’s 2016 model-year update is the addition of two upgraded engines, both now compliant with Euro 6 emissions regulations (up from Euro 5).

That upgrade sees 77TSI models replaced with the new 81TSI, while the 90TSI is updated to a 92TSI specification.

81TSI models are six-speed manual only, offering 81kW and 175Nm of torque. Fuel consumption for this model is still to be confirmed, but it is likely to improve on the 5.4L/100km listed with the outgoing 77TSI.

Opting for the 92kW/200Nm 92TSI models means a seven-speed DSG automatic, with fuel consumption listed at 4.9L/100km – down from 6.0L/100km in the previous model.

Both engines now also feature stop/start with brake energy recuperation, contributing to fuel consumption savings.

Another key upgrade for the Rapid Spaceback hatch is the addition of a 5.0-inch touch display, replacing the previous arrangement of a small monochrome display with physical controls only.

In its standard form, the display offers control of the Rapid’s audio system only, in both the regular models and the new Monte Carlo model.

But, add the $1500 Image Pack to regular models or the $1800 Tech Pack to the Monte Carlo, and you’ll gain a larger 6.5 inch display with satellite navigation and Skoda’s new SmartLink system, which adds connectivity with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.

2016 Skoda Octavia Hatch, Wagon, Scout 4×4

Like the Rapid, the Octavia range has been given a powertrain shuffle for the 2016 model year.

The entry-level 103kW petrol 103TSI is now replaced by the 110kW Euro 6 petrol 110TSI, but with the 132TSI now dropped from the regular Octavia range, the new unit is essentially a replacement for both.

Those that preferred the 132kW 132TSI don’t need to go without, but they’ll have to move to the Octavia Scout 4×4, now the only model to offer the more powerful mill. (The Scout is also offered in 110TDI and 135TDI diesel forms.)

In the cabin, the Octavia’s 5.8 inch ‘Bolero’ display has been upgraded to 6.5 inches, while the 8.0 inch ‘Columbus’ display is now packed with WiFi and SmartLink – the latter offering access to Apple Carplay and Android Auto.